Since then the workshop has taken off and embraced the technology.
"Some of the people that come in are aged in their 90s, which I think is awesome."
Gayle teaches basic cellphone techniques, including calling, texting and taking photographs.
"First I ask them what they use their phone for and a lot say they have it in their car for emergencies. I talk them into learning to text and using the camera."
However, Gayle is still amazed at how many people don't even know how to make a phone call on their phone.
"I teach them that first if they need it, then we progress to loading contacts and I always make sure they have all their emergency numbers stored."
Mobile phones are also a valuable safety tool, she says.
"I tell them it's important that they have their phone on them at all times, I really stress that."
Gayle says a small fee is charged for the workshops, however she hopes a sponsor will come forward in the future.
General manager Tanya Smith says technology is part of day-to-day life and it is important older members of the community could use it.
"I just feel, with the older members in the community, it's good for keeping in touch with their grandchildren and it's that social connection.
"I just think it's fantastic that they are learning the technology."
Often family members had given them an old cellphone.
"When they have been given a cellphone and it's a used one, often it just goes in the draw.
They haven't been shown how to use it or it has been a quick instruction and see you later.
"So when we started advertising this workshop it really took off."
If you would like to take part in a mobile workshop, contact Tauranga Age Concern on 578 2015.
They are located at 177a Fraser St.
